Much like a home, your commercial property needs to be prepared for winter so it can make it through storms and winter weather. Taking the steps now to make sure your property is protected from the elements will save you money, time, and stress in the long run.
Clear Gutters and Repair the Roof
Starting from the top, if you take care of the gutters and the roof, your building will be in great shape to weather the upcoming cold months. Before winter even begins (or as early as possible), check your roof thoroughly and make sure there isn’t any damage. If you do find damaged sections, make sure to take care of them before winter hits so you don’t face bigger problems at the end of the season.
Make sure to clear out your rain gutters between fall and winter. The leaves that fall during the autumn can often clog gutters and lead to serious problems for your roof. By taking care of them now, you can avoid more difficult and damaging situations later.
Protect Ground Surfaces
Keeping your sidewalks, parking lots, and other ground surfaces clear and safe is a great way to protect your property for winter. Sealcoating can protect the surface and extend the lifespan of your asphalt parking lot. Repaving a lot can be expensive, so keeping it safe in the first place is an easier option with a big impact. In addition to sealcoating, be sure to remove snow as it comes, and use salt to keep surfaces from getting too slippery. Preventing accidents on your property is good for your image and everyone who visits your business during the winter months.
Winterize the Property
Finally, it is important to go through the process of winterizing your property. Start by checking for drafts and using weather stripping to prevent them from entering the building. Then make sure to keep the heat running, at least on low, so your pipes won’t burst as winter temperatures creep below zero. Any exterior water, like irrigation or sprinkler systems should be shut off to prevent an outer pipe from bursting as well.
Once you are prepped for winter, it is a good idea to routinely inspect your property throughout the winter so you can catch any problem early and avoid excessive damage. With these steps in mind, your property should be ready for winter!
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